A Versatile Black Box Theater
The Topeka Performing Arts Center boasts a storied history in Topeka, Kansas. Originally opened as the Municipal Auditorium in 1940, it has hosted a diverse range of events, from sporting events and circuses to trade shows and Broadway productions. There are several performance spaces in the venue, including the Blackbox theater, a versatile space on the lower level that is used for intimate plays, poetry readings, experimental theater and events. The seating capacity is 120. The theater has a grid for lighting instruments and a portable sound system.
Metrics
Seats
Events per Year (combined)
Event Days (combined)
Services
Full-Service Facility Management
Operations
Accounting & Financial Services
Event Booking & Sales
Event Management and Operation
Food & Beverage Operations
Venue Branding & Marketing
Human Resources
Environmental Stewardship
Emergency Planning & Security
Community Engagement
Small Productions
Experimental Theatre
Dance Recitals
Poetry Readings
Small Theatrical Productions
Workshops and Showcases
School Dances
Business Meetings
Trade Shows & Networking Events
Executive Director
Daniel Kays
Daniel Kays serves as the Executive Director of the Topeka Performing Arts Center, bringing a wealth of experience in cultural and performing arts management. With a Fine Arts Degree from Pepperdine University, Dan's journey began as an Equity Stage Manager, touring extensively throughout the US and internationally.
He honed his leadership skills while managing the Cultural Division at California's Moonlight Amphitheatre from 2000 to 2016, and later as Operations Director at the City of Mountain View’s Performance Arts Center. Prior to joining VenuWorks in 2024, Dan was the Executive Director of the Bowlus Fine Arts Center in Iola, Kansas.
His background as a singer, dancer, actor, and musician fuels his passion for the arts, and his extensive leadership experience make him an invaluable asset to VenuWorks and the Topeka arts community.
Contact Daniel Kays and the Topeka Performing Arts Center - Hussey Playhouse Team!
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